DATA REVEALS ABERDEEN IS THE BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET TO VISIT THIS YEAR

With Christmas around the corner, markets all over the country have now opened for the festive season. But with so many options, which is the best one to visit to get into the Christmas spirit?

Botanical drinks brewer, Fentimans, has delved into the data and analysed all things Christmas across the UK’s biggest cities to find the ultimate Christmas market destination. Metrics include the number of Christmas markets to visit, the chance of snow, average costs for food and drink in each location and the cost of a weekend overnight stay.

Caitlin Bartlett, assistant brand manager, at Fentimans, said: “Christmas is always a magical time to bring families together, and there’s no better way to celebrate than at a Christmas market making exciting new memories. The last few years have been hard for people to get together, but we hope this year you can celebrate with your nearest and dearest in the best way.”

Aberdeen comes out on top with an overall score of 100. This year, they have everything for the whole family including a festive fairground and outdoor ice rink. Dundee also sits within the top five best markets with a score of 93 and is the cheapest to visit. Does Scotland have the best offerings this Christmas?

With the cost-of-living crisis affecting everyone this winter, Swansea comes out on top for the lowest food prices, Eastbourne for drinks, and Salisbury for a weekend stay in a hotel.

When looking at Google searches, Manchester receives 60,500 average monthly searches with Edinburgh coming closest to the top spot with 49,500 average monthly searches.

Also, in the North West, Liverpool may have the most Christmassy feel as the city has the highest probability for snowfall. Yet you may need to pay a small fortune, as Liverpool sits within the top 5 most expensive to visit.

With no surprise, our capital London is the most expensive Christmas market destination. Boasting the most markets on offer – including Winter Wonderland – you may need a Christmas miracle to foot the bill when accounting for accommodation and food and drink costs.

www.fentimans.com